Three ministries of Ss. Cyril and Methodius Parish in Clifton serve the parish in their own special way: Domovina (Homeland), Lord of the Miracles Brotherhood, and Our Lady of Guadalupe Brotherhood.
The parish’s non-profit Slovak organization, Domovina (Homeland), was founded in 2002 and has about 120 members.
“Our main goal is to support Ss. Cyril and Methodius Church and parish spiritually and financially,” said Martina Szotak, vice president of the ministry and an original member.
The ministry attends a Slovak Mass on Sundays, meets in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament on Thursdays to offer prayers for those who are ill or need a blessing, and holds annual retreats for women, men, and families. The ministry also has a school that teaches youngsters the language and culture to continue preserving the Slovak heritage.
Domovina (Homeland) has participated in many Ss. Cyril and Methodius events, including its 100th anniversary and the Slovak Heritage Festival, and has performed for three Slovak presidents.
Milner Luis Garcia is the Butler (Mayordomo in Spanish) of the Ss. Cyril and Methodius Lord of the Miracles Brotherhood. He has been a member of the ministry for 20 years and is one of 58 current members, who meet on the fourth Sunday of the month. The Lord of the Miracles Brotherhood takes part in parish activities.
“We encourage people to explore the bible and their faith together and to build strong relationships with each other. Members offer each other support and encouragement on the path of faith,” Garcia said. “We are strengthening faith and living righteously to be able to help and build the kingdom of God. We must be willing to serve our church and, as we serve in the kingdom of God, we receive blessings.”
Members of Ss. Cyril and Methodius Our Lady of Guadalupe Brotherhood participate in regular Mass, where they come together to pray and receive the Eucharist. Its 25 members normally meet monthly to discuss serving with love the needs of the parish.
The Our Lady of Guadalupe Brotherhood during the year organizes social gatherings and events such as festivals and picnics, creating opportunities for fellowship where members enjoy other’s company and share stories.
“These gatherings strengthen our faith and provide a sense of belonging,” said Nilsa Ramirez, president of Our Lady of Guadalupe Brotherhood. She said members serve the parish by raising funds either by selling breakfast food, a Mexican snack, or snack from any other country — everything and anything donated to us.”
